Modi’s Visit to Russia: Navigating Geopolitical Challenges

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to visit Russia next week, his first visit since the Ukraine invasion. As India balances its ties with Moscow and Western security interests, Modi’s visit aims to showcase India’s strategic independence in the face of growing tensions.

With longstanding ties, India and Russia have seen significant growth in their economic relationship. However, India’s diversification of arms suppliers and increased oil purchases from Russia have altered the dynamics of their partnership.

As Modi and Putin prioritize energy trade and defense cooperation, concerns arise about Russia’s deepening ties with China. India views a stronger Russia as crucial for maintaining a multipolar world and seeks to prevent a formal Russia-China alliance.

Modi’s absence at the recent Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit suggests challenges amid a changing geopolitical landscape. The upcoming summit with Putin will shape India-Russia relations for the next decade, addressing the rise of China and uncertainty in global leadership.

As Modi embarks on this significant diplomatic visit, the world will be watching the outcome and implications for India’s strategic positioning in a complex global scenario.

Edited by: Srinivas Mazumdaru